Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Gideon Nicholas Day
Published on 2024-02-26 17:11:41
The Ministry of Education in Ghana is facing the challenge of transitioning the country’s secondary education system from predominantly boarding schools to day schools. A recent report highlighted the need for a strategy that gradually shifts the norm towards day schools, reserving free boarding education for students in underserved communities with limited access to secondary schools.
According to the report, parents who opt for boarding status despite the availability of free day schooling should bear the full cost. This approach, recommended by EduWatch, could help the government generate additional revenue to support the Free SHS (Free Senior High School) initiative.
Another key recommendation from the report is the improvement in the disbursement of funds under the Free SHS policy. Timely availability of funds, especially at the school level, is essential to procure necessary items previously included in prospectuses. This would enhance compliance with the current moderate and harmonized prospectus, as well as ensure the availability of adequate food and teaching resources in schools, thereby reducing the financial burden on parents to provide provisions for their children.
EduWatch advocates for a nuanced approach that balances the financial aspects of the Free SHS policy with the goal of ensuring equitable access to education. Effective fund allocation is crucial for creating an improved teaching and learning environment in schools.
The shift towards day schools in Ghana’s secondary education system is seen as a strategic move to address the disparities in access to education across different communities. By focusing free boarding education on underserved areas, the government can target resources where they are most needed. This strategy aims to create a more inclusive and equitable education system that benefits all students, regardless of their socio-economic background.
In addition to the financial implications, the report also emphasizes the importance of effective resource allocation in improving the quality of education. Ensuring that schools have the necessary facilities, teaching materials, and support services is essential for creating a conducive learning environment that fosters academic success.
Overall, the recommendations put forward in the report highlight the need for a comprehensive and balanced approach to reforming Ghana’s secondary education system. By addressing issues related to funding, resource allocation, and access to education, the Ministry of Education can work towards creating a more sustainable and equitable education system for all students in the country.
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